Novak Djokovic 's domination of men 's tennis has made him a hero in his homeland of Serbia , and the world No. 1 's achievements were recognized on Wednesday when he was awarded the nation 's highest honor .

After winning three out of four grand slam titles in 2011 and clinching the Australian Open in Melbourne last month , Djokovic was given the Order of the Karadjordje 's Star of the 1st degree by Serbian president Boris Tadic .

It is just the latest accolade to be handed to Djokovic , who was also named Laureus Sportsman of the year last week after winning 41 matches in a row at the start of 2011 and losing only six all year .

`` I may have dreamed of lifting the trophy at Wimbledon , but I could never have thought that my country would reward me with such great honor , '' the 24-year-old five-time grand slam winner told his official website .

`` I am indebted to my people , and I will do my best to continue representing our beautiful country in the best possible way . ''

Tadic praised Djokovic , saying : `` Novak deserves the medal for special merits in representing Serbia . ''

Serbian Tennis Federation president Vuk Jeremic described Djokovic , who was part of Serbia 's Davis Cup-winning team in 2010 , as the greatest sporting hero the country has produced .

`` Tennis has become the most popular sport in Serbia and a source of collective pride , '' Jeremic told CNN of Djokovic 's impact .

`` People identify with Novak , and draw great inspiration from his can-do , never-give-up attitude . He 's the role model -- unbreakable , devoted , patriotic , charismatic . ''

As well as the impact Djokovic has had on the court , Jeremic also hailed the positive impact he has had on Serbia 's image around the world .

`` No athlete in our history has become such a national hero . And as far as Serbia 's image abroad is concerned -- can you think of a better public diplomacy vehicle ? ''

Djokovic will next be in action at the Dubai Tennis Championships at the end of this month for an event he has won the last three years .

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Novak Djokovic has been given Serbia 's highest honor at a ceremony in Belgrade

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The world No. 1 has won four out of five grand slams since the start of 2011

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Serbian president Boris Tadic said Djokovic deserved the accolade

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Djokovic : `` I will do my best to continue representing our beautiful country ''